5 Health Problems That Bananas Can Fix

In America, bananas are easy to find. Grocery stores and cafés sell these tasty fruits. You can even pick them up at gas stations! And while bananas seem ordinary, they have extraordinary powers. You’d be surprised at how well these fruits can act like medicine.

Bananas are a great source of energy, making them a popular pre-workout snack. They’ve been proven to help athletes power through long and intense exercise. In fact, they work just as well as carbohydrate drinks. The main difference? A greater intake of vitamins and minerals. Plus, bananas are easier on the wallet and taste buds.

# Reduces Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease. This condition is the leading cause of death for both American men and women. However, eating more bananas may help lower your risk. The power is within potassium. It lessens the impact of sodium, a mineral that stresses out your blood vessels. Potassium, on the other hand, relaxes tension and pressure. This also encourages sodium excretion through the urine.

At 420 milligrams per medium fruit, bananas are a rich source. Make them a regular part of diet while cutting back on salt. Together, these smart habits will help decrease the need for blood pressure drugs.

# Treats Depression

In the United States, depression is one of the most common mental disorders. About 3 to 5 percent of adults are affected at any time. Often, depression is paired with anxiety but diet can manage symptoms.

Bananas are rich in vitamin B6, a nutrient linked to mood. Signs of serious deficiency include depression, irritability, and nervousness. They also increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that increases motivation.

# Prevents Insomnia

Sleep is a must for good health. Yet, most people don’t get enough! Roughly 30 percent of adults get less than 6 hours of shut-eye a night, even though the recommendation is 7 to 8 hours. For many people, insomnia stands in the way. Bananas may benefit this common sleep disorder. The vitamin B6 helps make melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wakefulness. Your internal body clock will thank you. Sleep aids are on the market, but bananas are more natural. Enjoy one whenever your circadian rhythm needs some adjustment.

# Fights Constipation

Constipation is never fun. Symptoms include bloating, stomach pain, and straining to pass stool. You’ll also have fewer bowel movements than usual, making things super uncomfortable. Low fiber intake is a common culprit, but bananas can change that.

Before taking stool softeners or laxatives, eat a banana. One medium banana has 3.1 grams of fiber. It’ll help you reach the daily recommendation of 20 to 30 grams. But since most Americans only get 15 grams a day, it’s vital to increase your intake slowly. Eating too much too soon may cause even more stomach troubles.

# Tackles PMS

Ladies, this one is for you. The woes of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can be treated with bananas. This group of symptoms shows up 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation. Common issues include headache, exhaustion, digestive problems, muscle pain, and mood swings.

Magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E can provide relief. Bananas have all three! Plus, don’t forget that depression, bloating, and constipation are also on this list. These symptoms also show up in PMS.